English Reference
Idiom idiom

spot check


A cursory inspection or examination, especially of a sample of something.

Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.


SIMPLE

The manager does a spot check of the store every morning.

CONTEXTUAL

The supervisor performed a random spot check on the assembly line to ensure that all safety protocols were being followed correctly.

COMPLEX

During the audit, the inspectors conducted a rigorous spot check of the financial records to identify any potential discrepancies in the accounting process.


Related idioms8entries
  1. 01

    check and balance

    Provide mutual oversight and limitation by independent organizations in order to prevent abuses of power.

  2. 02

    check is in the mail

    A common excuse used by debtors to put off creditors.

  3. 03

    check the math

    To verify the source or accuracy of something.

  4. 04

    check through

    To permit someone to continue onward, e.g. through a security checkpoint, after verifying their identity, tickets, etc.

  5. 05

    gut check

    An honest, reflective appraisal of one's true feelings concerning a matter of concern.

  6. 06

    hit the spot

    To be particularly pleasing or appropriate; to be just right.

  7. 07

    need one's eyes checked

    To be seeing things (having visual hallucinations).

  8. 08

    reality check

    A wake-up call; a reminder.

Last updated August 10, 2026